MCQ Detailed View

The adult human skeleton consists of 206 bones, which together form the strong internal framework of the body. These bones provide support, protection, movement, mineral storage, and blood cell production. At birth, a baby has around 300 bones, many of which are made of soft cartilage. As a child grows, several of these bones fuse together, reducing the total count to 206 bones in adulthood.The adult skeleton is divided into two main parts:

1. 
   

   Axial skeleton (80 bones): Includes the skull, vertebral column (spine), ribs, and sternum. It supports and protects the brain, spinal cord, and vital organs of the chest.

   
   


2. 
   

   Appendicular skeleton (126 bones): Includes the bones of the arms, legs, pelvis, and shoulders, which are primarily responsible for movement and balance.

   
   

Key functions of the skeletal system:

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  Support: Provides the body’s framework and maintains shape.

  
  


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  Protection: Shields organs such as the brain, heart, and lungs.

  
  


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  Movement: Works with muscles to produce motion.

  
  


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  Mineral storage: Stores essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

  
  


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  Blood formation: Produces red and white blood cells in bone marrow.

  
  

Explanation of incorrect options:

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  210 and 260: These numbers do not match the standard adult bone count.

  
  


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  300: Refers to newborns before bone fusion takes place.

  
  

Bones are living tissues that continually undergo breakdown and rebuilding, a process known as remodeling, to maintain strength and health throughout life.

In conclusion, the adult human skeleton contains 206 bones, making option C (206) the correct answer for this biology MCQ.